Threaded plastic retainer ring for quick connectors in fluid sealing systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a threaded plastic retainer ring system for quick connectors used in fluid sealing applications, particularly in automotive water and coolant circuits. The system includes a quick connector body with internal threads, a retainer ring with external threads, tool engagement cavities for precise assembly, and thread breaker pins that engage with locking grooves to prevent over-rotation. The design ensures secure O-ring positioning within a sealing groove, providing a fluid-tight seal even under high-pressure and high-vibration conditions. The invention offers simplified assembly, enhanced durability, and improved sealing performance, with adaptability for various industrial applications.

Description

[0001] THREADED PLASTIC RETAINER RING FOR QUICK CONNECTORS IN FLUID SEALING SYSTEMS

[0002] Technical Field of The Present Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the fields of mechanical engineering, polymer science, and fluid sealing technology. Specifically, it focuses on a special solution for plastic quick connectors used in water and coolant circuits within the automotive industry. The invention incorporates threaded plastic retainer rings designed to position and secure O-ring sealing components, thereby enhancing the sealing integrity of fluid systems.

[0004] Background of the Present Invention

[0005] Plastic quick connectors are essential components in various engineering applications, particularly in the automotive industry, where they are widely utilized in water and coolant circuits. These connectors play a critical role in maintaining fluid flow integrity, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the system. Typically, quick connectors incorporate O-ring sealing elements, which are crucial for preventing leaks and maintaining pressure.

[0006] In existing designs, the positioning and securing of these O-ring seals are achieved through retainer rings, which are held in place by multiple clip systems or geometric interference within the connector body. However, these methods present several challenges, such as assembly complexity, susceptibility to wear and tear, and potential failures under high pressure or vibration conditions.

[0007] For example, EP 1 497 582 discloses a connection device with multiple components that secure a flexible tube to a rigid end piece. Although it provides a sealing function, the design involves multiple parts and compression mechanisms, increasing assembly time and costs. In contrast, the presentinvention reduces the number of components by utilizing a threaded plastic retainer ring, simplifying the assembly process while ensuring a secure seal.

[0008] Additionally, WO 2008 / 153510 describes a quick connector system for fluid circuits, focusing on axial retention through external clamping components. While effective, this approach relies heavily on precise geometric interference, which can compromise the structural integrity under dynamic conditions. The proposed invention addresses this limitation by integrating a locking mechanism with pre-designed grooves and locking pins, enhancing stability under torsion and vibration.

[0009] Another reference, DE 19740649, introduces a plug-in type coupling system that utilizes an inner sleeve, outer sleeve, and a locking device. While this configuration achieves functionality, it suffers from complex assembly procedures and potential wear on moving components. In comparison, the present invention ensures long-term reliability by using a threaded retainer ring and locking pins made of the same durable plastic material, minimizing wear and improving sealing effectiveness.

[0010] This invention significantly improves upon the limitations of prior art by introducing a simplified, durable, and cost-effective solution that enhances the structural integrity and performance of fluid sealing systems.

[0011] Brief Description of the Technical Drawings

[0012] Accompanying drawings are given solely for the purpose of exemplifying a plug-in coupling, whose advantages over prior art were outlined above and will be explained in brief hereinafter.

[0013] The drawings are not meant to delimit the scope of protection as identified in the Claims, nor should they be referred to alone in an effort to interpret the scope identified in said Claims without recourse to the technical disclosure inthe description of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 1 FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the threaded plastic retainer ring and its integration with the quick connector (QC) body. The components and features of the system are labeled as follows:

[0015] QC Body Thread on the Internal Diameter: This represents the internal threading on the quick connector body, designed to engage with the external threading of the retainer ring. This threading facilitates the secure positioning and fixation of the O-ring within the connector.

[0016] Thread on the Ring External Diameter: The external threading on the retainer ring is configured to mate with the QC body threading. This design ensures a reliable and leak-proof seal when the components are assembled.

[0017] Holes / Cavity for the Threading Tool for Assembly: These cavities or holes are provided on the retainer ring to allow for the use of a specialized assembly tool. The tool aids in the threading process, ensuring proper alignment and secure installation of the retainer ring.

[0018] Thread Breaker Pins Allowing Ring Block: The thread breaker pins are positioned to engage with pre-designed grooves or stops within the QC body. These pins prevent over-rotation of the retainer ring during installation, ensuring precise placement and stability under dynamic conditions such as vibration or pressure changes.

[0019] Detailed Description of the Present Invention

[0020] The present invention relates to a threaded plastic retainer ring system designed to enhance the performance, stability, and ease of assembly of quick connectors used in fluid sealing systems. This advanced design improves upon existing technologies, such as those disclosed in EP 1 497 582, WO 2008 / 153510, and DE 19740649, by addressing common challenges such asassembly complexity, durability under dynamic conditions, and long-term sealing reliability.

[0021] Plastic quick connectors are essential components in various engineering applications, particularly in the automotive industry, where they are widely utilized in water and coolant circuits. These connectors play a critical role in maintaining fluid flow integrity, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the system. Typically, quick connectors incorporate 0-ring sealing elements, which are crucial for preventing leaks and maintaining pressure. In existing designs, the positioning and securing of these 0-ring seals are achieved through retainer rings, which are held in place by multiple clip systems or geometric interference within the connector body. While effective to a certain extent, these solutions present challenges such as assembly complexity, susceptibility to wear and tear, and potential failures under high pressure or vibration conditions.

[0022] According to the present invention, the quick connector assembly comprises several interdependent components. The QC body internal thread (1 ) is located on the internal diameter of the quick connector body, allowing for engagement with the retainer ring external thread (2). These threads create a secure connection between the QC body and the retainer ring, ensuring precise alignment and sealing. The QC body internal thread (1 ) enables adaptability for various connector designs and, when paired with the retainer ring external thread (2), minimizes stress on the O-ring by providing even torque distribution, reducing wear, and ensuring long operational life.

[0023] The retainer ring body (3) serves as the main structural component of the assembly, integrating multiple features such as external threads, tool engagement cavities (4), and thread breaker pins (5). The tool engagement cavities (4) are strategically positioned on the retainer ring body (3) to facilitate tool-assisted threading. These cavities ensure even torque distribution,reducing the likelihood of misalignment or over-tightening during assembly. This interaction works in conjunction with thread breaker pins (5), which are integral to the retainer ring body (3). These pins engage with locking grooves (6) within the quick connector body, preventing over-rotation and ensuring that the retainer ring is locked into the optimal position.

[0024] The system also incorporates an O-ring sealing element (7), which is seated within the sealing groove (8) of the QC body. This groove is a pre-formed recess that ensures the O-ring is consistently compressed to provide a reliable seal. The tool access channels (9) extend from the exterior of the QC body to the tool engagement cavities (4) of the retainer ring body (3), enabling the use of specialized tools during assembly. Additionally, the lubrication grooves are included within the QC body internal thread (1) to reduce friction during engagement with the retainer ring external thread (2), improving assembly efficiency and preventing wear over time.

[0025] In one embodiment, the retainer ring body (3) includes a sealing lip on its axial surface, providing additional compression to the O-ring sealing element (7) for enhanced sealing performance. A secondary locking mechanism, such as an annular clip positioned around the retainer ring, may be employed to provide extra axial retention in high-pressure applications.

[0026] The quick connector may optionally integrate a data matrix code (13) onto the retainer ring or quick connector body to enable traceability and facilitate quality control. In this embodiment, a recyclable cover protects the code during storage and handling, ensuring the code remains readable until installation.

[0027] The invention also supports multi-layered material construction for key components. For instance, the quick connector body and retainer ring can be constructed using multi-layered materials, such as a combination of plastic and rubber, to provide enhanced pressure resistance, wear protection, and thermal stability.FIG. 1 illustrates how these components interact to achieve a functional and reliable sealing system. The QC body internal thread (1) engages with the retainer ring external thread (2), forming a robust mechanical connection. The retainer ring body (3) integrates the tool engagement cavities (4) and thread breaker pins (5), which interact with the QC body locking grooves (6) to prevent over-rotation. The 0-ring sealing element (7) is securely seated in the sealing groove (8) and compressed to prevent leaks. Tool access channels (9) enable efficient assembly using specialized tools, ensuring proper alignment and torque distribution. Lubrication grooves reduce friction during the threading process, while optional features such as the sealing lip and secondary locking mechanism provide additional sealing reliability and axial retention.

[0028] By integrating these components, the invention achieves simplified assembly through tool-assisted threading, enhanced stability through the interaction of thread breaker pins (5) and locking grooves (6), and improved sealing performance by maintaining precise O-ring positioning within the sealing groove (8). The threaded interface allows for easy maintenance and repair, while lubrication grooves enhance operational efficiency and longevity. Optional features such as the data matrix code (13) and multi-layered material construction further expand the invention's versatility.

[0029] This invention demonstrates an exceptional balance of simplicity, reliability, and performance, making it an ideal solution for modern fluid sealing challenges. It provides a robust and cost-effective alternative to existing systems, addressing their key limitations while offering significant advantages in assembly, operation, and traceability.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the invention, a quick connector body having an internal thread on its internal diameter (1) is provided, the latter comprising a retainer ring including an external thread (2) configured to mate with the internal thread (1 ) of the quick connector body; tool engagement cavities (4) onthe retainer ring to enable tool-assisted assembly; thread breaker pins (5) extending radially from the retainer ring and configured to engage with locking grooves (6) in the quick connector body; and an O-ring sealing element (7) configured to fit within a sealing groove (8) of the quick connector body and be compressed by the retainer ring to form a fluid-tight seal.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, the retainer ring is made of a thermoplastic polymer material or a composite material incorporating fiber reinforcements for enhanced durability and lightweight properties.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tool engagement cavities (4) are symmetrically distributed along the circumference of the retainer ring (3) to ensure balanced torque application during assembly.

[0033] The thread breaker pins (5) are integrally molded with the retainer ring (3) and extend into pre-designed locking grooves (6) in the quick connector body to prevent over-rotation.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, the quick connector body includes tool access channels (9) extending from its outer surface to the tool engagement cavities (4) for guided tool entry during assembly.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external thread (2) of the retainer ring has a thread pitch configured to distribute assembly torque evenly, reducing stress on the O-ring sealing element (7).

[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, the internal thread (1 ) of the quick connector body is tapered to facilitate easier engagement with the external thread (2) of the retainer ring.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the invention, a secondary locking mechanism including an annular clip positioned around the retainer ring to provide additional axial retention is provided.According to an embodiment of the invention, the O-ring sealing element (7) is formed of a material selected from fluoropolymer elastomers or silicone rubber to enhance thermal and chemical resistance.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the invention, the thread breaker pins (5) are elastically deformable to allow for secure engagement with the locking grooves (6) while accommodating substantially minor misalignments during assembly.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the invention, the quick connector body includes a secondary sealing groove to accommodate an auxiliary O-ring for redundancy in high-pressure applications.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tool engagement cavities (4) are reinforced with metallic inserts to enhance resistance against wear during repeated tool interactions.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the invention, the retainer ring further includes a sealing lip on its axial surface to provide additional compression to the O-ring sealing element (7).

[0042] According to an embodiment of the invention, the thread breaker pins (5) include an angular surface designed to prevent damage to the locking grooves (6) during installation.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, the internal thread (1 ) of the quick connector body includes lubrication grooves to reduce friction during engagement with the external thread (2) of the retainer ring.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the invention, a visual alignment indicator on the retainer ring (3) to confirm proper assembly with the quick connector body is provided.

[0045] According to an embodiment of the invention, the O-ring sealing element (7)includes a multi-layered design with an inner structural layer and an outer sealing layer for enhanced durability.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the invention, the retainer ring (3) includes antivibration features such as radial ridges or elastic dampers to mitigate movement under dynamic conditions.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the invention, a sensor integrated into the quick connector body to detect leakage, pressure variations, or real-time performance data, wherein the sensor is wirelessly connected to a central monitoring system.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the invention, the thread breaker pins (5) are replaceable components, allowing for customization based on specific assembly torque requirements.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the invention, an additional sealing layer between the O-ring sealing element (7) and the retainer ring (3) for enhanced protection against extreme temperature and pressure variations.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the invention, the retainer ring (3) is configured with modular sections allowing attachment of auxiliary features, such as sealing lips or damping elements, without altering the primary structure.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the invention, the retainer ring (3) includes over-molded metallic reinforcements or embedded identification codes for enhanced durability and traceability.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the invention, the external thread (2) of the retainer ring includes reverse-threading or multi-start threading for specialized assembly configurations.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the invention, the components are made fromrecyclable materials, including the retainer ring (3) and quick connector body, to minimize environmental impact.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tool access channels (9) are designed to interface with robotic assembly tools, ensuring compatibility with automated manufacturing processes.

Claims

CLAIMS1 ) A quick connector body having an internal thread on its internal diameter (1); a retainer ring including an external thread (2) configured to mate with the internal thread (1 ) of the quick connector body,tool engagement cavities (4) on the retainer ring to enable tool-assisted assembly,thread breaker pins (5) extending radially from the retainer ring and configured to engage with locking grooves (6) in the quick connector body and, an 0-ring sealing element (7) configured to fit within a sealing groove (8) of the quick connector body and be compressed by the retainer ring to form a fluid-tight seal.2) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the retainer ring is made of a thermoplastic polymer material or a composite material incorporating fiber reinforcements for enhanced durability and lightweight properties..3) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the tool engagement cavities (4) are symmetrically distributed along the circumference of the retainer ring (3) to ensure balanced torque application during assembly.4) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the thread breaker pins (5) are integrally molded with the retainer ring (3) and extend into pre-designed locking grooves (6) in the quick connector body to prevent over-rotation.5) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the quick connector body includes tool access channels (9) extending from its outer surface to the tool engagement cavities (4) for guided tool entry during assembly.6) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the external thread (2) of the retainer ring has a thread pitch configured to distribute assembly torque evenly, reducing stress on the 0-ring sealing element (7).7) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the internal thread (1) of the quick connector body is tapered to facilitate easier engagement with the external thread (2) of the retainer ring.8) The quick connector system of claim 1 , further comprising a secondary locking mechanism including an annular clip positioned around the retainer ring to provide additional axial retention.9) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the 0-ring sealing element (7) is formed of a material selected from fluoropolymer elastomers or silicone rubber to enhance thermal and chemical resistance.10) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the thread breaker pins (5) are elastically deformable to allow for secure engagement with the locking grooves (6) while accommodating substantially minor misalignments during assembly.11) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the quick connector body includes a secondary sealing groove to accommodate an auxiliary O-ring for redundancy in high-pressure applications.12) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the tool engagement cavities (4) are reinforced with metallic inserts to enhance resistance against wear during repeated tool interactions.13) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the retainer ring furtherincludes a sealing lip on its axial surface to provide additional compression to the O-ring sealing element (7).14) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the thread breaker pins (5) include an angular surface designed to prevent damage to the locking grooves (6) during installation.15) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the internal thread (1) of the quick connector body includes lubrication grooves to reduce friction during engagement with the external thread (2) of the retainer ring.16) The quick connector system of claim 1, further comprising a visual alignment indicator on the retainer ring (3) to confirm proper assembly with the quick connector body.17) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the O-ring sealing element (7) includes a multi-layered design with an inner structural layer and an outer sealing layer for enhanced durability.18) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the retainer ring (3) includes anti-vibration features such as radial ridges or elastic dampers to mitigate movement under dynamic conditions.19) The quick connector system of claim 1, further comprising a sensor integrated into the quick connector body to detect leakage, pressure variations, or real-time performance data, wherein the sensor is wirelessly connected to a central monitoring system.20) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the thread breaker pins (5) are replaceable components, allowing for customization based on specificassembly torque requirements.21 ) The quick connector system of claim 1 , further comprising an additional sealing layer between the O-ring sealing element (7) and the retainer ring (3) for enhanced protection against extreme temperature and pressure variations.22) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the retainer ring (3) is configured with modular sections allowing attachment of auxiliary features, such as sealing lips or damping elements, without altering the primary structure.23) The quick connector system of claim 1 , wherein the retainer ring (3) includes over-molded metallic reinforcements or embedded identification codes for enhanced durability and traceability.24) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the external thread (2) of the retainer ring includes reverse-threading or multi-start threading for specialized assembly configurations.25) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the components are made from recyclable materials, including the retainer ring (3) and quick connector body, to minimize environmental impact.26) The quick connector system of claim 1, wherein the tool access channels (9) are designed to interface with robotic assembly tools, ensuring compatibility with automated manufacturing processes.

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